Otjiwa is a family Business
The word Otjiwa means – a beautiful place, and indeed, once you visit this magnificent nature reserve, you will most definitely agree. Otjiwa Safari Lodge is situated 258km from Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek and is the perfect stopover on your way to the famous Etosha pan. We would recommend you stay for more than one night as Otjiwa has a lot to offer. From breathtakingly beautiful views, wild animals, safaris, relaxing spa treatments to adventurous activities like rhino tracking, horse riding and so much more…
Otjiwa likes to give their guests a warm welcome and help them to have a relaxing and unforgettable experience. Otjiwa can be your home away from home. This is achieved by many hardworking and friendly staff members and the Barnard family that made Otjiwa the amazing place it is today.
WP and Julandi Barnard together with their 3 children moved to Otjiwa in 2008. Over the years the 3 children of the Barnard family grew up and they each went their separate ways. After many years, in 2022 the whole family was once again reunited at Otjiwa Lodge. Each of the family members now plays a major role on the reserve.
The eldest child, Marquerite and her husband Schalk Muller manage the 5 star Lodge, known as the Mountain Lodge. Schalk is also our General Manager and Marquerite is our marketing and events manager. The Mullers are the heart of the Mountain Lodge and with a personal touch ensures that every guest has a true Namibian experience.
Schalk Barnard (only son) and his wife Anja Barnard also play a major role on the reserve. Schalk is known as the Reserve Manager and make sure our animals and reserve are well protected and taken care of. Schalk’s wife, Anja, manages the Spa at Eagle’s rest and guarantees a relaxing experience for each and every guest.
The youngest daughter, Anja and her husband Nico Horn joined the family on the reserve in the beginning of 2022. Anja is the Kitchen manager and work with all of our trusty chefs to provide tasty and authentic meals at the Lodge. She has a true passion for good food and spends hours in the kitchen perfecting every dish before presenting it on our menus. Nico, the lodge’s own handyman makes sure all of the properties are well taken care of and in good conditions. Nico is also our known horse whisperer and recently started training the horses so that our guest can experience Namibian wildlife on horseback.
WP and Julandi Barnard as the owners do not shy away from any of the hard work on the lodge. During your visit you will most definitely find one of them around making sure everything is picture perfect so that guests can have a comfortable and memorable stay. They truly are the glue that holds everything firmly together.
Otjiwa is not only considered a family business because of the Barnard family – but each and every staff member is part of the bigger Otjiwa Family. Every member of this ‘Family’ works as a well-oiled machine